Living at home or alone at uni?

The transition to university life is an exciting but daunting process and some of you may have made the decision to live at home and commute to university or to live alone.

Whilst there are lots of positives to living at home or alone such as saving money, having less distractions, and being around your home comforts, it can also be a lonely and isolating place. You may have missed out on Freshers' Fayre at the start of term, not felt confident enough to attend social events by yourself, or are still in the early stages of making friends on your course.

We want you to know that you are not alone and lots of students struggle with feeling a sense of belonging when they aren’t living in halls or shared accommodation.

We see you, and we want to share our top 5 tips to help you integrate into university life, reduce feelings of loneliness, and support you to know that you are a valued and important member of the university community.

1. Find your people. Have a think about what is important to you, what you enjoy doing, or what you would like to have a go at. Societies and groups are a really great way of connecting with like-minded people who share the same passions and interests as you. From board games and country dancing, to kayaking and tea parties, there is something for everyone at the Student Union.
2. Attend our events. Events are a great way to meet new people and there are a whole host of different things to get involved in. Did you know that you can attend Res Life events even if you don’t live in halls, and you can attend events put on by the International Student Advice team even if you are a home student. Take a look at our Student Services events brochure which you can pick up from University House to see what is coming up and how to book on to attend.
3. Visit our Wellbeing Café or our Chaplaincy Lounge for a cup of tea, crafting, or just a chat. Our Student Support staff are approachable and friendly and can help you work through any feelings of loneliness or isolation that you may be experiencing. There are also a number of Student support groups that you may find useful in meeting other students who just get you.
4. Volunteering is a great way to meet people and make friends, whilst making a positive impact in the local community and gaining valuable work experience. Find out more about the different types of volunteering opportunities and how to book an appointment at our Careers and Employability Centre.
5. Be brave and start up a conversation with someone on your course – pay them a compliment, ask them a question, or just smile and say hello! Chances are they will be feeling very similar feelings to you and will welcome a friendly face.

We know that reaching out and going to events and clubs can be really scary and that sometimes it feels easier to just not do it. It’s so important for our wellbeing to find connections with like minded people and the benefits really do outweigh the initial anxious feelings you may be experiencing. Why not call a friend or family member before attending an event for moral support and plan to reward yourself afterwards by watching a favourite film or ordering a takeaway.

You have so much to offer the university community and we never want you to feel alone. Take a chance – it just might be the best decision you ever made.